Compression Sessions for Nurses and Healthcare Workers

Nurses, techs and healthcare workers push through long shifts on their feet. Here is what a compression session can offer when the shift is over, and what it can't.

Twelve-hour shifts. Hard floors. Running from room to room without a real break. If you work in healthcare, your legs take a beating, day after day. A NormaTec compression session won't fix that, but many people find it a comfortable way to put their feet up once the shift is done.

Why does standing all day wear out your legs?

Standing for hours keeps your leg muscles working with little rest, and it's tiring in a way that walking isn't. By the end of a long shift, many people feel heavy, achy legs and sore feet. Compression socks are common on hospital floors for this reason. If you have leg symptoms that worry you, a doctor is the right first stop.

What can a NormaTec session offer?

The over-the-counter NormaTec models are FDA-cleared "to temporarily relieve minor muscle aches and/or pains, and to temporarily increase circulation to the treated areas." That is the whole cleared use. Many people find it a relaxing way to end a stretch of shifts.

• Comfortable and quiet. You can close your eyes.
• No medication involved.
• Easy to pair with red light or a BrainTap relaxation session if you want a longer visit.

What is a session like at DWT Wellness?

You sit or recline with the boots on. The chambers inflate in sequence, from your feet up through your calves, knees and thighs, and then release. Most people describe it as a firm, rhythmic squeeze, and we can adjust the pressure. Sessions run about 20 to 60 minutes. We also have attachments for arms and hips.

Wear comfortable, tight-fitting clothing that lies flat against your skin. Loose scrubs can bunch under the sleeves, so leggings or fitted athletic pants work better. Skip denim, zippers and body jewelry.

When is the best time to book around your shifts?

Whenever you'll actually sit still. For many people that's a day off, or the start of a stretch of days off. There's no evidence that one timing works better than another, so pick what fits your schedule. Our Cedar Knolls studio is open Monday to Friday 9 to 6 and Saturday 9 to 2.

Socks at work, boots afterward: how do they fit together?

Compression socks give steady pressure while you work. Boots are a set session you sit down for afterward. They do different jobs, and plenty of people use both. Our compression boots vs. socks guide explains the difference.

What does the research honestly show?

The effects are small. A 2024 review of pneumatic compression for sports recovery (Maia et al.) found trivial-to-small effects on perceived soreness and muscle function. A 2025 review (Canez et al.) found moderate-certainty evidence that it does not reduce soreness 24 hours after exercise. Those studies looked at athletes, not long shifts, so think of any benefit as a comfort, not a promise.

When should you see a doctor instead?

If one leg is painful, swollen, warm or red, or you feel short of breath or have chest pain, get medical help right away. Do not book a compression session. The same goes for swelling that doesn't go down overnight or new pain that keeps getting worse.

Who should check with a doctor first?

Skip compression, or talk to your doctor first, if any of these apply:

• You have, or have had, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other blood clots.
• You have open wounds on the area the boots would cover.
• You have a recent fracture or severe arterial disease.
• You are pregnant.
• You're being treated for a medical condition and haven't checked with your doctor.
• If you've had surgery recently, get clearance from your surgeon first and bring it to your first session.

You take care of everyone else. Take 30 minutes for you.

DWT Wellness is in Cedar Knolls, close to hospitals across Morris County. See our NormaTec compression page. Your first session is free. Ask us for current session and package pricing: (973) 908-1524. Book online or call (973) 908-1524.

Frequently Asked Questions